Willy Kostka

Willy’s career reflects his passion and commitment to the people and islands of Micronesia. Willy founded and led the Conservation Society of Pohnpei and was instrumental in Compact negotiations with the US, helping to secure $2 million annually for environmental protection and sustainable development in the Federated States of Micronesia. Willy co-founded and serves as Executive Director of the Micronesia Conservation Trust, an organization that supports biodiversity conservation and sustainable development across Micronesia. In recognition of his achievements, Willy was awarded a Pew Fellowship and used his grant to launch the Micronesia Challenge Young Champions Internship Program, providing scholarships and leadership to prepare the next generation of Micronesia’s conservation “Champions.” (Interviewed by Manuel Mejia, June 2016 and Trina Leberer, Oct 2016.)